Both the fan base and front office of the Los Angeles Lakers patiently await the results of the upcoming 2017 NBA Draft, a crucial turning point for a revamped franchise. The Lakers remain torn between Lonzo Ball and Josh Jackson though recent reports suggest the team being extremely impressed with Markelle Fultz’s workout as well as considering tradeoptions with the pick.
The Ball family, mainly father LaVar, has been vocal with their preference since the conclusion of the 2017 NBA Draft Lottery. Both LaVar and Lonzo have wanted to hear NBA Commissioner Adam Silver call Lonzo’s name when the purple and gold make their selection.
LaVar and Lonzo both appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live this past week, discussing a variety of topics involved with the Big Baller Brand and all it entails. One interesting topic that came up was their chances one-on-one against Michael Jordan.
This isn’t the first time television and the media have hyped up the possible matchup between LaVar and Jordan, with LaVar confidently stating that in his prime he could defeat Jordan. LaVar remains insistent that the size difference between he and Jordan was make the matchup rather quick.
On the other hand, Lonzo jokingly agreed that he could defeat Jordan now, albeit at the age of 54. Ball has the talents more so dedicated towards five-on-five basketball, but has a certain agility and evasiveness that could cause matchup problems for any defender.
With the 2017 NBA Draft less than a week away, the Lakers have steadily prepared for all situations surrounding the No.2 and No. 28 picks. With some flexibility in their current position, the Lakers haven’t necessarily leaned one way with their selection.